New Eatery Concept Emerges on I-35: Burgers or Wings?

A new dining concept is taking shape on the I-35 Frontage Road in San Antonio. Ted Baker, the entrepreneur behind Ray’s World Famous Chili Burgers, is actively seeking staff for a new venture that may focus on wings instead of the initially planned chili burgers. A job listing for a Wing Stop position has raised questions about the direction Baker intends to take as he prepares to open the establishment by the end of 2026.

Baker, originally from California, aims to create a burger brand reminiscent of the iconic Tommy’s Burger from Los Angeles. His vision for Ray’s World Famous Chili Burgers includes a simple yet high-quality menu centered around chili burgers, with fresh-cut fries fried in lard to complement the main dish. With a commitment to maintaining quality, Baker plans to keep the menu straightforward, mirroring the successful approach of chains like In-N-Out Burger.

After visiting a local Wing Stop, Baker began to reconsider his focus. He recognized that wings might be more efficient to mass-produce and serve. “I built a burger spot, but that’s going to cost more to open, and I can’t open them just as fast,” Baker explained. This shift in strategy reflects his desire to create a quick-service dining experience that resonates with customers.

As part of the new concept, Baker plans to incorporate a double drive-thru and two walk-up windows at the location on I-35 Frontage Road. This design aims to facilitate quick service, echoing the efficiency seen at popular chains like Raising Cane’s. “We want to make sure that service at our place is just like Raising Cane’s; it takes less than two minutes to get whatever food you want,” he stated.

While the concept is still evolving, Baker’s enthusiasm for delivering a memorable dining experience remains strong. The restaurant’s blue exterior has generated curiosity, and Baker hopes the unique offerings will attract a loyal customer base when it opens.

For those eager to experience the flavors of Ray’s World Famous Chili Burgers, the establishment at 9911 I-35 Frontage Rd is projected to open in 2026. As plans solidify, the future of this new eatery will be closely watched by both burger enthusiasts and wing lovers alike. Stay tuned for updates as the culinary journey unfolds.